Survey Futures is a UKRI-ESRC funded research programme that aims to deliver a step change in approaches to collecting population survey data in the UK. In 2024, we launched the Early Career Impact Awards, a new initiative designed to celebrate early career researchers and recognise the extraordinary talent, passion and contributions of those working in the UK survey sector today.
We are pleased to announce that Survey Futures is running the award for the second time this year. Up to eight winners of these awards will be offered year-long mentoring and opportunities to further support their career via free training and professional recognition.
The winners and their nominators will be invited to a special event, hosted by the Royal Statistical Society, in London held on Thursday 12 November 2026 from 13.30 to 17:00. They will present their work in front of an audience of colleagues working in survey research which will be followed by a reception, providing an excellent opportunity to build their personal network for the future. There will also be opening and closing talks given by prominent figures in the survey community (tbc).
How to submit an entry or book an audience place?
The award eligibility criteria and submission form to nominate an early career researcher can be found in the ‘Full event information’ tab on this page.
To book a place to attend this event as an audience member (only) use the ‘Book now’ button.
Call for nominations – do you know a deserving early career researcher?
Nominees must be:
- Based in the UK
- Within their first 7 years of working in survey research
- Working on survey design, survey delivery, survey methods
Nominations must be submitted by someone else on the individual’s behalf. If you are a tutor, mentor, colleague, manager etc who is working with an exceptional early career researcher in the survey sector, then please consider submitting a nomination.
Judging criteria:
- We are looking for nominations that focus on both the survey research method or technique, and on the enthusiasm, drive and personal development of the nominee.
- Nominations need to be focused on the method and design of surveys, rather than the survey or research findings.
- Evidence of the nominee's dedication, enthusiasm, perseverance, commitment to quality, and individual development should be included in the submission.
- Nominations that showcase original and innovative methods, as well as those that highlight the impact of the research will also be welcomed.
The judging panel:
- Tricia Dodd (Royal Statistical Society)
- Ed Dunn (Verian and Chair of the Social Research Association)
- Gabi Durrant (University of Southampton and National Centre for Research Methods)
- Tim Hanson (City University)
- Debrah Harding (Market Research Society)
- Tom Huskinson (Ipsos)
- Peter Lynn (University of Essex and Survey Futures)
- Gerry Nicolaas (National Centre for Social Research)
- Laura Wilson (Office for National Statistics)
How do I nominate an early career researcher?
Nominators should get permission from the nominee before submission. In the submission, the nominator should state, in no more than 700 words, why they think the nominee should be considered for the award. Note, this information will be used by the judging panel for selection and read out at the event to introduce the individual on stage.
Complete the
online application form by the
deadline of midnight on Thursday 10 September 2026.
Winners will be announced approximately one month before the event date.
To book a place to attend this event as an audience member (only), use the ‘Book now’ button
More information to follow
Supporting organisations:
City University; Economic and Social Research Council; Ipsos; Market Research Society; National Centre for Research Methods; National Centre for Social Research; Office for National Statistics; Royal Statistical Society; Survey Futures; University of Essex; Verian; Social Research Association.